Finder Sidebar Error "Applications can't be opened because the original item can't be found" error AND a FIX that WORKED (for me)!

ISSUE: When I click to open the Applications folder from the Finder sidebar I would get this error message:

"Applications can't be opened because the original item can't be found"

Analysis: The Finder Sidebar has selections that, when clicked upon, open various folders (i.e. sub-directories). These selections are LINKS (in Unix terminology). If the LINK is broken it can appear that the target of the LINK has moved when, in fact, it hasn't. This is such a case. So, to fix this issue the broken LINK must be replaced with a working LINK as follows...

Here's how I fixed this problem:

1) Open Finder

2) 2-finger select the Applications button on the left (i.e. the one giving the error) This opens a dialog box

3) Select "Remove from Sidebar" to delete the broken link to Applications folder

OK, now you've removed the broken link. Let's put a working one back!

4) Locate the Finder menu bar (top left of your screen) and select "Settings" (or try <Command Key> + <,> )

5) A dialog box with a listing of available Sidebar selections is displayed: Select the now un-checked "Applications" item. The Applications selection (i.e. LINK) now re-appears in your Finder's sidebar.

6) Test it: go ahead, press that Applications selection!

Should be working now. This is what fixed the problem on my 2022 MAC OSX Sequoia 15.3.2

While I don't know why this happened it's key to remember that if the Applications folder was damaged, moved or missing PROGRAMS WOULD NOT RUN. So, if you can run something, you're going to be OK! :-)

[Re-Titled by Moderator]